California is a place I’ve visited more times than I can remember, and I even briefly lived here for half a year when I was in the Marines. Most of those trips were in my pre-photography days, so while I have little to show for it, I’ve done quite a bit here. The only major city I haven’t visited is Sacramento, and shamefully I’ve not yet visited Yosemite, probably one of my biggest travel destinations remaining in the US!
Explore Los Angeles
LA is one of America’s most famous and exciting cities. Many people trek across the country to visit Hollywood in hopes of gaining fame and fortune. Many of those who are already famous live in Beverly Hills, one of the most expensive places in the United States. Los Angeles is the second-largest city in America and a major cultural and trading center.
Explore Mt Whitney
The High Sierras of California are often overlooked by most Americans. While Colorado mostly comes to mind when we think of mountains in the US, it’s actually California that has the highest peak in the continental United States. Mt. Whitney stands at 14,505 feet and is a popular hike in the summer while offering technical mountaineering challenges in the winter.
Explore San Diego
Known for its great weather and friendly population, San Diego is one of the country’s nicest cities. With miles of beaches and good surf, many people enjoy swimming, bodyboarding, and other beach activities all year round. It’s almost impossible to ever get bored in San Diego, but if that is ever the case, then a quick drive south will take you to Tijuana, Mexico.
Explore Joshua Tree
Famous for the unique Joshua trees that grow in the southwestern American desert, this national park is known for its dry scenery, wildlife, and terrain. The large boulders and rock faces offer some of the best rock climbing and bouldering in the region.
Explore the Redwoods
Northern California is home to the famous redwoods, the tallest trees on Earth! The national and state parks that protect the redwoods span over a hundred miles parallel to the coast. This vast forest is full of all kinds of outdoor adventures and wildlife. One of the most unique activities in the forest is redwood canopy climbing and zipline tours.
Explore Crescent City
California’s northernmost city is more of a quiet coastal town located along the ocean. Crescent City is known for its beautiful black sand beaches, wild sea lions and seals, and its proximity to the giant redwoods. For those not wanting to camp in the mountains, Crescent City offers a perfect place to enjoy the best of the local mountains and beaches.
